We are a couple (Gary & Cindy) and this blog will be a journal of our experience retraining a thoroughbred race horse who has come off the track ("OTTB" = Off Track Thoroughbred).

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

March 23, 2010

Cindy headed straight to the stables after work. Gary had arrived about 30 minutes earlier and had LBR groomed and tacked up.

There were lessons in the sand arena so they headed to the grass arena. Gary lunged LBR and he did well at the walk/trot/canter both directions. Another boarder was lunging at the opposite end of the arena and though mildly distracted, LBR continued nicely.

Cindy rode first. LBR was the most amazing horse tonight. There were 2-3 other horses in the arena riding at all gaits - around him, behind him, beside him, etc... There was also a four(4) year old girl playing/singing at the top of her lungs in the middle of the arena. No big deal...LBR was focused.

Because LBR was doing so well, Cindy even got to canter him. This was the first canter in an arena with other horses moving as well. It was PERFECT.

Cindy did a lot of trot work too concentrating on position on the rail as well as flexing correctly in the turns.

After about 45 minutes, Gary rode for a bit. He is working on his seat and improving quickly.

After the ride, LBR was groomed, allowed to graze for a bit and then returned to his paddock of treats.